WSU Clark County Extension
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Lingonberry

Scientific name: Vaccinium vitis-idaea
Taxonomy
Family:Ericaceae
Type:Groundcovers evergreen
Native:YES
Plant Requirements
Zone:2 to 8
Sun:Full sun
Plant Characteristics
Height:1 ft
Width:3 ft
Bloom:Summer flowers
Bloom Time:June to August
Bloom Color:White
Additional Characteristics
Trees


Fruit

Leaves


Bark
Wildlife value

Poisonous
Description Even though it is native to the Arctic tundra, Lingonberry does grow in the temperate Pacific Northwest.

  Morphology:
This is a Northwest native evergreen groundcover that can grow to 16” in height, spreading out by underground rhizomes to form a dense mat.

The flowers are bell-shaped, white to pale pink and approximatley 1/3 “ long. Flowers form primarily duirng the early summer, but some will still appear into the fall.

Flowers give rise to fruit which are relatively small (slightly less than ½” across). The fruit is bright red to dark red, strong flavored and tart berries. They are nutritious and rich in antioxidants, anthocyanins and flavonoids.

  Adaptation:
Lingonberries are well suited to cooler climates and can be expected to do well in regions where blueberries and cranberries are productive. They do prefer acidic sites.

  Pests:
None reported.
For assistance, contact Dr. Charles Brun (brunc@wsu.edu), (360) 397-6060 5701
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